Somalia Peace Program - Capacity Building

Young men ages 14 to 26 took part in an electrical installation training in Israac Village.

Young men and women coming of age now in Somalia have never known a time without civil war. Take a look at how some are ending the cycle of violence—and what the U.S. can do to support, instead of hinder, their efforts.

When young people’s energies and creativities are directed toward positive and constructive activities in their communities, they become active contributors to a realization of a just and peaceful Somalia. AFSC emphasizes the role of young people, but does not preclude the engagement of elders and others. Rather, young people will be the guiding flag around which the changes for peace and change will unfold for the respective communities and relevant stakeholders.

Youth in Galkayo are the most affected in the situation of war, anarchy and poverty which made us vulnerable to manipulation to engage in armed conflict with cash inducements and promises of a better future...

AFSC has enabled people to come together and gain skills to strive for peace with one another. In one project, the Galkayo Community Peace Promotion, AFSC works in partnership with the Puntland Minority Women Development Organization (PMWDO). This is in the north eastern part of the greater Somalia, a placed called Puntland.

We [were] able to identify some of the creative ways through which youth can be mobilized and catalyzed to renew their commitment towards the promotion of peace

Celestin Nkundabemera is the Program Director of the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) in Somalia, assisting the country's peace-building efforts. The organization's work in Somalia touches on many key concepts: development, human rights, community safety, conflict prevention and mediation, to name a few. In real life it has meant going to communities ravaged by 20 years of war and rebuilding their capacity for peace.

The AFSC-Africa program was excited to host Arlene Kelly, Clerk of the Board of AFSC for 10 days. Her visit included time with the AFSC staff and partners in five countries and community members in areas where AFSC works.

The 18 who graduated as facilitators have co- facilitated additional 6 basic training in a team of experienced facilitators as apprentices. These additional basic trainings were held in locations inside the refugee camp in Daadab and those not within the camp in Bura and Garissa.

Who we are

AFSC is a Quaker organization devoted to service, development, and peace programs throughout the world. Our work is based on the belief in the worth of every person, and faith in the power of love to overcome violence and injustice. Learn more

Where we work

AFSC has offices around the world. To see a complete list see the Where We Work page.